Severe lightning warning issued for several provinces

Colombo, April 12 (Daily Mirror) - The Meteorology Department has issued a warning of thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning expected to occur in several parts of the country after 1.00 p.m. today.

According to the advisory, affected areas include the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, North-Western, and Uva provinces, as well as the Ampara, Batticaloa, and Polonnaruwa districts.

The Department said that temporary localized strong winds may also occur during these thundershowers, increasing the risk of damage.

The general public has been strongly urged to take precautionary measures to minimize the dangers associated with lightning activity. People are advised to seek shelter indoors and avoid staying under trees during thunderstorms. Open areas such as paddy fields, tea plantations, and water bodies should be avoided.

Authorities also warn against the use of wired telephones and connected electrical appliances during thunderstorms. The public is further advised to refrain from using open vehicles such as bicycles, tractors, and boats, and to remain cautious of fallen trees and power lines.

In case of emergencies, residents are encouraged to contact local disaster management authorities.